Kaat won 283 games in his illustrious career. Blyleven earned 287 victories. He ranks fifth in career strikeouts and ninth in career shutouts. Morris earned only 254 victories, but deserves props for his 6-1 record in postseason contests.

Cooperstown, though, has said no to them time and again.

The 300-victory plateau, a career ERA around the 3.25 mark and a Cy Young award or two in the trophy case seem to be the arbitrary demarcation line that distinguishes brilliance and say, above-average competence, to merit serious consideration.

On all counts, Moyer fails to meet the standards. In addition to not having enough victories, his ERA is 4.19, and he has never come close to winning a Cy Young.

Yet, if the Hall of Fame ever dedicates a wing to perseverance coupled with an above-average mastery of one's craft, Moyer should go to the head of the class.